How does JavaScript compare to PHP in terms of functionality for real-time character counting in a text area?

JavaScript is typically used for real-time character counting in a text area as it can easily interact with the DOM and update the count dynamically without needing to reload the page. PHP, on the other hand, is a server-side language and does not have the ability to update content on the client-side in real-time. To implement real-time character counting in a text area using JavaScript, you can listen for input events on the text area and update the character count dynamically.

<?php
// PHP code cannot be used for real-time character counting in a text area
// Use JavaScript instead for this functionality
?>